ISLAMABAD: The nationwide strike by goods transporters has entered its 6th day after talks with the federal and provincial governments failed to reach an agreement.
President of the Goods Transporters Association, Nabeel Mehmood Tariq, said that negotiations with the government have reached a deadlock. He added that since the government is not ready to end the daily fluctuations in diesel prices, the strike will continue indefinitely.
Speaking to the media, Nabeel Mehmood Tariq said the talks failed due to the government’s inflexible attitude. He stated that the government is also unwilling to reduce toll taxes or fix the rates for one year.
The minor concessions being offered on customs and load axle were unacceptable to the transporters. He warned that the government is not accurately assessing the negative impact of the goods transport strike on the economy, and that it will realize the severity of the situation within a few days.
Due to the strike, the supply of vegetables and fruits is being disrupted, leading to a rising trend in prices. In Balochistan, prices of essential food items including chicken have increased due to the strike.
In Quetta, the price of chicken meat has risen from Rs. 500 to Rs. 550 per kg. Meanwhile, in Karachi, the delivery of vegetables continues through small vehicles
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